AHCPCM203 Fell small trees

Release: 1

AHCPCM203 Fell small trees

Modification History

Release	TP Version	Comment
1	AHCv1.0	Initial release

Application

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to fell small trees where hazards have been assessed as low risk.

It is an introductory or base-level unit that covers felling procedures for small trees.

This unit applies to individuals who undertake defined activities with specialised tools and methods, work in a structured context, apply knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy and limited judgement, and provide solutions to a limited range of predictable problems. Work is implemented with low risk work procedures and to comply with Safe Work Method Statement documentation.

Licensing, legislative, regulatory, or certification requirements apply to this unit in some states and territories at the time of publication, and may differ according to jurisdiction. Specific determination should be sought through the relevant state or territory.

Pre-requisite Unit

AHCMOM213 Operate and maintain chainsaws

Unit Sector

Plant culture and management (PCM)

Elements and Performance Criteria

Element	Performance criteria
Elements describe the essential outcomes.	Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.
1.Assist in preparation of work site	1.1 Determine location of worksite and correct tree from the scope of works 1.2 Identify site hazards, assess risks and report to supervisor 1.3 Confirm work zone with work crew and monitor site 1.4 Identify first aid and emergency personnel, equipment and procedures 1.5 Record and implement work health, safety, site, environmental and traffic control measures
2.Identify tree felling requirements	2.1 Identify hazards associated with felling operation 2.2 Assess risks and report to supervisor 2.3 Examine topography and site conditions 2.4 Identify factors influencing the tree felling operation and confirm findings with supervisor 2.5 Identify trees considered outside own skill level for felling and seek assistance from appropriate personnel 2.6 Determine natural direction of fall, safe fall zone and exclusion zone and confirm with supervisor 2.7 Receive instructions for tree felling operations from supervisor and clarify instructions prior to undertaking work
3. Prepare for tree felling	3.1 Select and prepare felling equipment and component options appropriate to the task being undertaken 3.2 Prepare, transport and appropriately position support tools to minimise felling delays 3.3 Select, check, use, maintain and store suitable safety and personal protective equipment (PPE) 3.4 Clear fall zone of obstacles and articles which may be damaged by felled tree 3.5 Establish clear escape route appropriate to site
4. Fell tree	4.1 Note and monitor location of other personnel 4.2 Carry out tree felling operation 4.3 Communicate with work team during operations using voice, hand and whistle signals 4.4 Determine standard tree felling techniques, patterns and cut sequences by ground conditions and state of canopy 4.5 Take corrective action in response to changing conditions or problems encountered 4.6 Use planned escape route when tree starts to fall 4.7 Monitor fall of tree and movement on ground until felled tree is stable 4.8 Use low risk work practices in all activities
5. Complete tree felling operation	5.1 Determine appropriate method of clearing the site of felled tree 5.2 Select and use machinery required for removal of felled tree 5.3 Clear fall site of tree and all tree debris 5.4 Clean and store all machinery and equipment on completion of operation

Foundation Skills

Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.

Range of Conditions

Unit Mapping Information

This unit is equivalent to AHCARB202A Fell small trees.

Links

Companion Volume implementation guides are found in VETNet - https://vetnet.gov.au/Pages/TrainingDocs.aspx?q=c6399549-9c62-4a5e-bf1a-524b2322cf72